Veteran Scholarships & State Benefits
Beyond the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program, veterans have access to numerous scholarships and state-specific education benefits. This guide covers the top opportunities available to help you fund your education.
National Veteran Scholarships
These scholarships are available to veterans nationwide, regardless of which state you live in.
Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship
Award: Varies (average $10,000+)
Eligibility: Veterans, active duty, and military spouses
The Tillman Scholars program supports service members, veterans, and military spouses pursuing higher education. Named after NFL player and Army Ranger Pat Tillman.
AMVETS National Scholarships
Award: $1,000 – $12,000
Eligibility: Veterans and active duty pursuing higher education
AMVETS offers multiple scholarship programs for veterans at various stages of their education journey.
VFW Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship
Award: Up to $5,000
Eligibility: Service members and veterans transitioning to civilian careers
Helps cover educational expenses for veterans pursuing degrees, certifications, or vocational training.
American Legion Scholarships
Award: Varies by program
Eligibility: Veterans, dependents, and Legion members
Multiple scholarship programs available through the American Legion and its auxiliary organizations.
State-Specific Veteran Education Benefits
Many states offer additional education benefits for veterans who are residents. These can be used alongside or instead of federal benefits.
Texas Hazelwood Act
Benefit: Up to 150 credit hours of tuition exemption
Eligibility: Texas veterans and eligible dependents
One of the most generous state education benefits in the country. Covers tuition and fees at Texas public colleges and universities.
California College Fee Waiver (CalVet)
Benefit: Waiver of enrollment fees at CA community colleges and state universities
Eligibility: California veterans and dependents
Waives mandatory fees at California Community Colleges, CSU, and UC campuses for eligible veterans.
Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG)
Benefit: Tuition and fees at Illinois public universities
Eligibility: Illinois veterans with at least one year of active duty
Pays tuition and certain fees for up to 120 credit hours at Illinois public colleges and universities.
Florida Veteran Fee Waiver
Benefit: Waiver of tuition and fees
Eligibility: Florida veterans with service-connected disability or Purple Heart recipients
Provides tuition waivers for eligible Florida veterans at state colleges and universities.
Scholarships by Military Branch
- Army: Army Emergency Relief (AER) Scholarships
- Navy/Marines: Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Education Assistance
- Air Force: Air Force Aid Society Education Grants
- Coast Guard: Coast Guard Foundation Scholarships
Tips for Maximizing Your Education Benefits
- Stack your benefits – Many scholarships can be used alongside the GI Bill
- Check your state first – State benefits often cover what the GI Bill doesn’t
- Apply early – Many scholarships have annual deadlines
- Don’t overlook small scholarships – They add up and are often less competitive
- Check with your school – Many universities have veteran-specific scholarships
Need Help?
Questions about veteran scholarships and education benefits? Contact us and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.